White Birch (Paper Birch) vs Black Locust - TreeTime.ca

White Birch (Paper Birch) vs Black Locust

Betula papyrifera

Robinia pseudoacacia

White Birch (Paper Birch)
Black Locust

White Birch is a large, attractive deciduous tree. This fast-growing, cold hardy species has distinctive white papery bark that peels in layers, making it a beautiful ornamental or accent tree. White Birch also makes great firewood.

Black Locust is an attractive tree. Its distinctive leaves are made of about a dozen bright green leaflets. It also notable for its fragrant white flowers, which smell of citrus.

Black Locust can grow in many situations, but prefers dry areas with lots of sun. It is robust and is an excellent choice for establishing shade in dry, open areas.

Important note: Much of the Black Locust is toxic to humans and livestock, including seeds, bark, and leaves.

White Birch (Paper Birch) Quick Facts

Black Locust Quick Facts

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Zone: 2a
Zone: 3a
Height: 18 m (60 ft)
Height: 12 m (40 ft)
Spread: 11 m (35 ft)
Spread: 8 m (25 ft)
Light: full sun
Light: full sun
Moisture: normal, wet
Moisture: dry, normal
Growth rate: fast
Growth rate: fast
Life span: long
Life span: long
Suckering: none
Suckering: high


Bark: white, papery, peeling
Bark: dark reddish brown to balck with furrows
Flowers: Creamy white flowers in a pyramidal shape bloom in may-june
Seeds: located within the catkins
Seeds: dark brown peapod-like pods
Hybrid: no
Hybrid: no
Catkins: yes
Catkins: no


Native to: AB, BC, SK, MB, ON, QC, NS, NB, NL, YT, NT, PE
Other Names: american white birch, canoe birch, paper birch
Other Names: false acacia, yellow locust